KARACHI: A controversy has erupted at Government Collage (GC) University, Hyderabad over the appointment of former Registrar of the University of Sindh Ghulam Muhammad Bhutto as Registrar at GC, Hyderabad after his superannuation.
The appointment is in violation of service rules, regulations, and the Supreme Court orders. Bhutto after the retirement from University of Sindh as Registrar in grade 20, joined GC University in same grade and on the same salary. This appointment sets a new precedent, with no prior example of a retired individual of a public sector University being appointed to another public sector University after retirement at same position.
Bhutto’s appointment is particularly contentious given his past tenure as Registrar, where he faced numerous inquiries and criticism for his handling of university (UOS) affairs. His role in the university was marked by controversy, raising concerns about his suitability for the position.
The appointment has sparked widespread protests at GC University Hyderabad, with students, teachers, and employees demanding Bhutto’s immediate removal. Protesters accused the university administration of violating rules and regulations, prioritising personal interests over the institution’s well-being. The situation is tense, with protesters calling for an investigation into the appointment process and demanding accountability from the university’s leadership.
Professor Tariq Hussain Jalbani, President of the Government College University Teachers Association (GCUTA), has expressed deep concerns over the appointment, highlighting its illegality and potential consequences for the university, besides, the Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Association (FAPUSA), Sindh Chapter, has also raised concerns over the appointment, demanding removal of retired persons from universities across the Sindh province. FAPUSA has been protesting
against such appointments, citing concerns about the impact on higher education in Sindh.
The appointment has raised serious concerns over the university’s commitment to upholding academic integrity and good governance. Stakeholders are demanding immediate action to rectify the situation and restore faith in the university’s administration. The future of GC University Hyderabad hangs in the balance, and it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact the institution’s reputation and stability.
Mukhtiar Jamali, Spokesman for the GC University, Hyderabad told The News that Dr Ghulam Muhammad Bhutto continued to serve at the University on contractual basis following his retirement. His engagement was made in accordance with the relevant provisions of law and with the approval of the competent statutory body during the tenure of the former vice chancellor.
Spokesman added the decision was taken after due process and in line with the University’s administrative rules and requirements.
All appointments at the University are made strictly on merit and with full transparency, and the University remains fully committed to following due process, statutory requirements, and all applicable laws and regulations in matters of employment and administration.
Ghulam Muhammad Bhutto in his brief reply told The News that his appointment is as per law. He added that he was not authorised to convey official response to media, Spokesman of the University is only authorized person to convey official response.
